ELCHE STUN ATLETICO MADRID 3-2 TO BOOST SURVIVAL HOPES

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Agency Report

Atlético Madrid suffered a shock 3-2 defeat to relegation-threatened Elche CF in a La Liga clash on Wednesday, marking their seventh loss in eight matches across all competitions.

The Champions League semi-finalists, who are set to host Arsenal FC next week, were unable to recover from their recent Copa del Rey final defeat on penalties to Real Sociedad.

Manager Diego Simeone rotated his squad heavily, fielding a largely second-string side to rest key players following the exhausting cup final. Despite the loss, Atlético remain fourth in the league standings.

Nicolás González scored twice for Atlético, but Elche secured victory thanks to a brace from André Silva and a goal from David Affengruber.

González opened the scoring after a clever backheel assist from Rodri Mendoza on the edge of the box.

Elche equalised through Affengruber, who bundled the ball past goalkeeper Jan Oblak, and the defender played a key role in their second goal.

Atlético’s task became harder when Thiago Almada was sent off in the 30th minute for pulling down Affengruber inside the penalty area. Silva converted from the spot to give Elche the lead.

However, Atlético responded almost immediately as González produced a moment of brilliance, keeping the ball in play, lifting it over goalkeeper Matías Dituro, and heading home. A VAR review confirmed the ball had crossed the line despite a clearance attempt.

Silva sealed the win for Elche with 15 minutes remaining, firing home from close range after Oblak saved an initial header from Affengruber, who then recycled the ball into a dangerous area.

The victory lifts Elche provisionally to 15th place, two points clear of the relegation zone, boosting their hopes of survival.